My mother recently died. She was 93 years of age, and she was “ripe and ready.” I believe this with my whole heart, and that helps me accept the fact I’ll never see her again in this lifetime. She expressed to me her readiness more than once. Considering all the circumstances with which she lived these last few years, and especially her final few weeks, I totally get it. Enough is enough. And I believe the end-of-life feels better to…..
Saturday was our wedding anniversary. One year since we were married. One year since that wonderful day, a day that was almost perfect in every way. After twelve years, living as husband and wife, we wanted to make it official. We chose to experience the joys of saying “I do,” of toasting each other and consecrating ourselves to each other in front of witnesses. With only 48 hours of pre-planning, our family made this special ceremony possible; and afterwards they…..
I am still getting used to it. I promised you I’d write about you, about us. This is harder to do than I thought it might be. A promise is a promise. We had twelve amazing years together. For these I give thanks every day. The last year was a rough one. From your diagnosis of pancreatic cancer till your death we had a mere seven months. Seven mindful months. Seven months to say goodbye. Seven months is not enough……
This is a very good article that discusses the importance of physicians having the much needed discussion about end of life with their patients. “There is no ‘right’ answer for how patients should respond to a terminal illness. It’s a deeply personal decision based on a complex array of spiritual, social, financial and emotional needs.” Patients who are terminal can only make these tough choices if their doctor (s) are trained and able to share bad news. Yet many doctors…..